Patricia Oren

Patricia “Pat” Ann Oren, 77, passed away on November 16, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital. Pat had a strong spirit until the end, finally letting go and resting in the arms of Jesus.

Pat was born on July 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, to Gates & Alice (Graham) Wetzbarger. Pat’s mother passed away shortly after her birth which led Gates to move Pat and her sister, Cathy, to South Dakota to be closer to family. Pat spent most of her childhood in Sioux Falls, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1966.

On December 29, 1967, she married the love of her life, Dale Oren. Together they built a life marked by a lot of grit, determination, and adventure. Their journey took them to Naples, Florida; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Kansas City, Missouri; and eventually back to Sioux Falls, the place they would call home while raising their family and spending most of their years.

Pat worked in a variety of manufacturing positions, where her strong work ethic quickly became her trademark. She later found joy working as a waitress, bringing warmth, humor, and her unforgettable personality to almost everyone she served—unless they didn’t tip well. She especially enjoyed working in hotels, where she met travelers from all over the world and often came home with stories to share. In the last chapter of her working life, she and Dale traveled together as installation technicians for Lodgenet Entertainment. After several years on the road, Pat was ready to retire and stay closer to home.

Pat found joy in the simple things: fishing, gardening, reading, and watching her favorite television shows. She was a loyal—and very expressive—San Francisco 49ers fan, known to throw things at the TV when the team let her down. One of the great highlights of her life was the day she met Joe Montana. In her younger years, she loved to dance, bowl, and play darts. She also had a special affection for frogs, collecting them and delighting in the charm they brought to her patio and flower beds.

Those who knew Pat will always remember her for her quick wit, sharp humor, and honest, straightforward approach to life. If she had something to say, she said it—and people loved her all the more for it. She was often heard saying, “If it wasn’t for sarcasm, I wouldn’t have any personality at all.”

Grateful for having shared her life are her children and their families: Bret (Maria) Oren of Denver, CO; Kimberly (Chris) Boyd of Sioux Falls, SD; and Nichole (John) Gruber of Sioux Falls, SD. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Brenden Oren, Micah Oren, Ashlie (Connor) Martinson, Malachi Boyd, Lily Gruber, and Johanna Gruber; and her great-grandson, Douglas. Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Dale; her parents, Gates and Alice Wetzbarger; her sister and brother-in-law, Cathy and Dan Griffith; and her brother, Wayne Wetzbarger.

Pat will be deeply missed by the family and friends who loved her dearly and will forever remember the laughter and joy she brought into their lives.

Interment will take place at a later date at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, where she will be placed with her beloved husband, Dale, whom she has missed dearly.